Cup Noodles go isekai in crossovers with three of Japan’s other favorite foods [Taste test]

Three unique isekai-inspired Cup Noodles released by Nissin allow fans to sample Japanese culinary staples in a new light. Unlike traditional isekai stories that often begin with a life-altering event, these instant ramen cups require no dramatic setup to enter a fantastical realm. All it takes is purchasing them from a convenience store or supermarket shelf. Three flavors have been unveiled: Seafood Cup Noodle Gohan Desu Yo, Cup Noodle Gindaco, and Cup Noodle Karamucho.

Yayoi Saginomiya, a Japanese-language reporter, tasted each combination and graded them on a scale of one to five stars based on how well they recreated the original food's flavor and the overall deliciousness of the resulting dish.

Gohan Desu Yo, a brand of simmered seaweed paste, paired with the standard Seafood Cup Noodle broth resulted in a dish that was somewhat diluted, despite the potential for a delicious match-up. The seaweed flakes added an aroma reminiscent of takoyaki, but the Gohan Desu Yo paste quickly lost its texture and flavor when mixed in. Overall, this crossover earned two stars for its recreation of Gohan Desu Yo and a three-star rating for overall deliciousness.

Gindaco, a popular takoyaki chain, collaborated with Cup Noodles to create a takoyaki-flavored instant ramen. Adding the Gindaco oil packet transformed the broth into a taste similar to the chain's signature takoyaki sauce. The "octopus-style balls" in the cup evoke memories of takoyaki while the seaweed flakes provide an aroma reminiscent of the famous street food.

Fans of Gindaco will appreciate the flavor, earning this isekai Cup Noodle a three-star rating for recreation and a three-star rating for overall deliciousness.

Cup Noodle Karamucho is the most unexpected yet delightful of the three isekai flavors. Combining the Curry Cup Noodle with Karamucho's hot chili powder and potato snacks, this combination creates a unique and flavorful experience. The spicy, garlicky heat adds an exciting twist to the typically sweet Curry Cup Noodle, and the potato "tots" provide a satisfying crunch. This unconventional ramen topping pays off in taste, making Cup Noodle Karamucho a five-star recreation of Karamucho and a five-star overall deliciousness.